1 Implementing Global Warming Countermeasures · 2017. 1. 12. · 312 2016 Section 1 Promoting...

311WHITE PAPER ON LAND, INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT AND TOURISM IN JAPAN 2016

Section 1 Promoting Global Warming Countermeasures

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Chapter 8 Creating and Preserving a Beautiful and Healthy Environment


1 Implementing Global Warming Countermeasures

At the twenty-first session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate,

change (COP21) which was held in Paris, France, in December 2015, the Paris Agreement was adopted as a new

international framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions to replace the Kyoto Protocol.

Based on the Paris Agreement, Japan was called upon to formulate “the Plan for Global warming Counter measures”

by the spring of 2016. In response, the MLIT studied global-warming countermeasures (mitigation measures) to be

incorporated into a new plan according to discussions held by the Council for Infrastructure Environment Committee and

the Council for Transport Policy Transport System Subcommittee ; Environment Committee.

Even if mitigation measures were to be implemented to the maximum extent possible, it is widely believed that the

impact of climate change cannot be completely avoided. As the importance of implementing adaptation measures to

prepare for the negative impact of climate change has been indicated, we will promote adaptation measures to the utmost

in addition to adopting energy-conservation measures and ushering in an era of renewable energy.

Figure II-8-1-1 MLIT Global Warming Countermeasures (mitigation measures)

- Promotion of next-generation vehicles (hybrid automobiles, etc.)- Regulatory review in relation to fuel cell vehicles- Spreading and promoting ecological driving,

etc.

- Streamline truck transportation- Modal shift to railways and shipping- Reduce overland transportation distance of internationally

shipped container cargo- Promote energy conservation in the port area, introduction

of the facilitation and utilization of renewable energy

- Augmenting the convenience of railway and bus usage

- Promote ecological commuting

- Strengthening the arterial highway network such as belt highways, grade separation of highway intersections

- Preparing an environment conducive to cycling- Promoting ITS, etc.

Transport Sector Residential sector, commercial and other sectors

Stand-alone measures for automobiles

・Making modes of travel environmentally friendly

Optimizing LogisticsPromoting the use

of public transportation

Creating traffic systems with minimal environmental impactOther

Enhancing energy

efficiency in railroads,

shipping and aviation

Housing and Buildings

- Improve thermal insulation performance- Optimize air-conditioning facilities, etc.

Sewage system

- New energy, energy conservation measures

Vehicle and road traffic policies

Forming low-carbon emission cities Energy conversion sector

Realization of Compact Cities

Industry sector

Construction machinery

- Disseminating fuel efficient construction equipment.

Forest sink measures

Urban Greening, etc.

- Plant new greenery around public facilities, etc.

Control policies for carbon monoxide

Sewage sludge treatment

- Improve combustion methods.

- Efforts to spread the H25 energy conservation standards- Information dissemination to consumers through evaluation and disclosure (CASBEE,

system of disclosure for housing performance, etc.)- Support for housing and buildings with superior energy-saving performance, such as

zero-energy housing and low carbon emission housing- Promotion of energy-saving renovations to existing stock- Utilization of the securitization loan framework

- Efficient use of unused energy in sewage systems- Reduce energy usage in sewage treatment facilities

Renewable energy generation- Promotion of solar power generation using public facilities

- Promotion of offshore wind power and small hydro power generation

Stand-alone measures for automobiles

・Making modes of travel environmentally friendly

Measures for traffic flow

Source) MLIT

312 WHITE PAPER ON LAND, INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT AND TOURISM IN JAPAN 2016


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2 Promoting Global Warming Countermeasures (Mitigation Measures)

(1) Promoting Low-carbon City DevelopmentIn urban areas with a considerable concentration of human residents and buildings, low-carbon urban development

plans produced by municipalities according to “The Low- Carbon City Act”, which came into force from the standpoint

of the desire to advance “low-carbon urban development” in accordance with the consolidation of urban functions, the

promotion of the use of public transit in connection with this consolidation, and the promotion of green conservation and

greening initiatives, came to be formulated by twenty-two cities by the end of fiscal year 2015. “Low-carbon urban

development” will continue to be promoted for initiatives under these plans through statutory special measures, taxation

systems, fiscal measures, and other means.

(2) Promoting the Development, Distribution and Optimal Utilization of Environment-friendly Vehiclesa. Improving Mileage of Vehicles

Based on the Law Concerning Rational Use of Energy (Energy Saving Act), we are formulating fuel economy standards

and disclosing fuel consumption for automobiles. We established the Automobile Fuel Economy Standards Subcommittee

(a subordinate committee operating under the Council of Transport Policy) and have summarized the results of discussions

pertaining to the introduction of the Worldwide Harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedures (WLTP).

Furthermore, the average fuel efficiency rate of gasoline passenger vehicles released in FY 2014 was approximately

4% higher compared to FY 2013, and we will continue in the efforts to further improve fuel efficiency.

b. Framework for promoting improvements in fuel efficiencyA program for evaluating and publicizing performance in terms of the fuel efficiency of automobiles is being run to

make it easier for consumers to identify and select vehicles that offer exceptional performance in terms of fuel efficiency.

Stickers are affixed to vehicles to enable fuel performance in terms of fuel efficiency to be outwardly discerned by

consumers.

c. Promoting the dissemination of environment-friendly vehiclesAfter reviewing conditions for receiving eco-car tax reductions (vehicle weight tax and automobile acquisition tax) for

an automobile offering excellent environmental performance (eco car) under the FY 2015 taxation system revisions, we

implemented measures for obtaining preferential treatment in connection with the tax system by extending these tax

reductions by two years and establishing a greening exemption tied to the light motor vehicle tax to go along with an

exemption tied to the vehicle tax.

We are promoting urban development based on the use of environmental vehicles by providing subsidies for the

acquisition of fuel-cell vehicles, electric vehicles, and micro-mobility vehicles from the standpoint of promoting global

warming countermeasures. In addition, subsidies are being granted to truck and bus business operators for the acquisition

of CNG automobiles Note, hybrid vehicles, and advanced environmental diesel trucks.

d. Development, application, and creating a usage environment for next generation heavy vehiclesSince FY 2015, we have been pursuing scientific research to promote the development and commercialization of

technologies relating to high-efficiency next-generation diesel engines and next-generation large-sized vehicles known as

large-sized liquefied natural gas automobiles from the standpoint of reducing carbon footprints and emissions.

Note Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles (Natural Gas Automobiles)



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e. Promoting and disseminating ecological drivingMLIT has promoted holding symposiums and events all over the country in cooperation with the relevant ministries

and agencies of the government and the District Transport Bureaus. We also worked on promoting and spreading

ecological driving based on the “10 Reasons for Driving Ecologically”. Furthermore, in order to promote and disseminate

ecological driving by the Automobile Carrier businesses, MLIT supports the introduction of the Ecological-driving

Management System (EMS) Note 1.

(3) Promotion of traffic flow improvementVarious traffic flow measures are being tried, since improving the driving speed by smoothing the traffic flow will

improve the actual as mileage rate and decrease the carbon dioxide emissions from automobiles. Specifically, we are

developing ring roads and other arterial road networks that are effective in reducing through-traffic in the urban center by

providing them with alternate routes, working on grade separation of intersections and promoting serial railroad grade-

separation projects to eliminate unopened grade crossings. In order to realize smooth, safe transportation services, we are

also promoting initiatives for enabling roads to be used smartly, such as by contributing to the optimal use of existing

networks through the use of ETC 2.0, a program for which full-scale adoption efforts have begun. We also work on

providing improved road space for cyclists. In order to reduce carbon footprint, LED road lights are being introduced.

(4) Promoting the use of public transportationThe shift from private vehicles to public

transportation reduces travel with vehicles

and is a necessary facet of global warming

countermeasures. For this reason, we are

helping to promote the introduction of

public transit IC cards and other

computerization initiatives, make public

transportation more convenient through the

introduction of an LRT/BRT system and

improvements to transfers and popularize

ecological commuting at the business

establishment-level through a scheme to

certify offices for excellence in eco-

commuting. Furthermore, information

analysis and validation results of past

activities for the Environmentally

Sustainable Transport (EST) Model Project

were provided nationwide to regions

working to realize EST.

(5) Optimizing logisticsExceeding 50% of the total domestic transportation modes in Japan, trucks account for the majority of the share ratio

(ton kilometer basis in transportation). The CO2 emissions base unit Note 2 of trucks is greater than that of mass transportation

such as railroads and domestic shipping, and trucks account for 90% of the CO2 emissions in logistics. In order to reduce

CO2 emissions while sustaining domestic logistics, we must strive to utilize energy efficient transportation modes such as

railroads and domestic shipping in addition to improving energy efficiency and transportation efficiency of trucks. With

a view to establishing an efficient system of logistics with a lower environmental impact, we are providing support for

initiatives concerning joint transportation, modal shifts, efforts to promote the dissemination of large CNG trucks and

Note 1 Plan for the implementation of planned and continuous ecological driving of motor vehicles with the integration of evaluation and guidance.

Note 2 The amount of CO2 emitted by shipping 1ton of cargo for a distance of 1km.

Figure II-8-1-2Promotion of “Ecological Commuting” through Mobility Management

Secretariat of Scheme: MLIT, Foundation for Promoting Personal Mobility and Ecological Transportation

Certification and registration of business facilities that actively implement ecological commuting by the Conference on Promotion of Public Transportation (MLIT, Ministry of the Environment, METI, traffic businesses, economic organizations, individuals with relevant knowledge and experience).644 business facilities registered as of March 2016.

Certification Scheme established June 2009

Residence, dormitory, etc.

Workplace

Before implementation After implementation

Carpool commuting

Bicycle commuting

Commuting with public

transportation

(Mostly targeting commuters using personal vehicles)

Commuter bus

Train station

Park and ride

<Issues>- Occurrence of a traffic jam- Deterioration of surrounding environment- Tardiness or traffic accidents of employees

Encouragement to employeesProvision of information for

trains and busesIntroduction of

commuter bus, etc.

Efforts lead by enterprises

“Ecological commuting”

Promoting ecological commuting in business facilities of enterprises, etc. through mobility management

Eco-commuting Excellence Office

Train station

Workplace

Residence, dormitory, etc.

Source) MLIT



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other environmental vehicles, a smaller carbon footprint generated by logistical sites, and a smaller carbon footprint

generated by ports and harbors. We are also promoting the dissemination of equipment containing natural coolants for use

in warehouses for frozen and refrigerated goods. In addition to studying a matching framework for the promotion of joint

transportation, promoting the use of containers on a round-trip basis, developing low-floor freight cars to accommodate

the shipping of forty-feet tall containers by rail, and providing subsidies for the acquisition of thirty-one-feet containers

for railways that are equivalent in size to ten-ton trucks, we are also promoting the construction of energy-saving vessels

and otherwise invigorating the coastal shipping and ferry sector. We also work to disseminate the Eco Rail Mark (161

products (199 items) and 86 cooperating enterprises certified as of the end of August 2015), and the Eco Ship Mark (94

consignors and 110 logistics businesses enterprises certified as of the end of February 2015). In ports and harbors that are

a hub for maritime transportation and overland transportation, we are endeavoring to reduce overland transportation

distances for cargo by promoting the development of international maritime container terminals, development of

international logistics terminals, and development of domestic logistics sites compatible with combined multimodal

transportation. In ports and harbors, we are also engaged in efforts to support the introduction of energy-saving systems,

promote modal shifts and transportation streamlining based on the use of marine transportation for reverse logistics

facilitate the introduction and promote the use of recyclable energy, develop green tracts to contribute to CO2 absorption,

and create seaweed beds and other such ecosystems.

In addition, in cooperation with the relevant ministries and related organizations, we hold the Green Logistics

Partnership Conference to give awards to the excellent operations through the collaboration of logistics operators and

shipping companies and to raise public awareness.

Figure II-8-1-3Promotion of Activities through the Green Logistics Partnership Conference

Example of a case awarded by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (In 2014)

Summary of the awarded enterprises

◆Award from Minister of MLIT

◆ Special Award from Green Logistics Partnership Conference

◆Award from Ministry of Logistics Deputy of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Minister’s Secretariat

Award granted by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism: standardization of palletizing operations

Award granted by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism

[Purpose] To encourage enterprises to autonomously engage in initiatives and promote the dissemination and growth of the concept of green logistics by recognizing meritorious achievements in connection with initiatives carried out to successfully reduce burdens on the environment in the logistics sector, improve the productivity of logistics, or otherwise establish a sustainable system of logistics.

[Types of Awards] Ministers Award, Director-Generals Award, and a Special Award have been created.Ministers Award --- Award from Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award; Award from Ministry of Economy, Trade and IndustryDirector-Generals Award --- Award from Ministry of Logistics Deputy from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Secretariat; Award from Ministry of Commerce and

Distribution Safety Deputy from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry SecretariatSpecial Award --- Award on the level of the Ministers Award and the Director-General Awards for particularly superior initiatives (created in 2013)

Initiative Name: Endeavoring to promote comprehensive green logistics accompanying a modal shift; aiming to standardize palletizing operations and establish a diversity-oriented logistics network in anticipation of a driver shortage.

Companies: Kobe Modal Shift Promotion Council, Nestle Japan, Ltd., Zenkoku Tsu-un Co., Ltd., and Japan Freight Railway Company

Initiative Name: Project to implement measures to deal with shortages of long-haul drivers and reduce amounts of CO2 emission through the use of marine and rail modes of transportation.

Companies: Nippon Express Co., Ltd., Fujifilm Logistics Co., Ltd., MOL Ferry Co., Ltd., Japan Freight Railway Company

(i) Initiative Name: Reducing burdens on the environment by way of the efficient operations of transportation businesses and reduced amounts of CO2 generated by these businesses through greater collaboration in the area of trunk-line shipping, the shared use of facilities, the joint administration of collection and delivery work, and the sharing of IT systems.

Companies: Tonami Transportation Co., Ltd., Daiichi Freight System, Inc., Kurume-Trans Co., Ltd.(ii) Initiative Name: Supporting initiatives to reduce burdens on the environment through operations of Yamaya Shoryu’s distilled spirits center and a

next-generation modal shift.Companies: Yamaya Shoryu Corporation, Senko Co., Ltd., Japan Freight Railway Company, Kokura Transportation Co., Ltd., Sendai Express Co., Ltd., SBS

Logicom Co., Ltd., Japan Oil Transportation Co., Ltd.

Green Logistics Partnership Conference

- This conference was launched as a conference for promoting awareness of the importance of green logistics and stimulating interactions among cargo owners, logistics companies, and other concerned parties in order to advance CO2 reductions in the logistics sector. Since FY 2015, this conference has been promoting not just initiatives to reduce amounts of CO2 emissions but also initiatives to reduce other burdens on the environment, improve the productivity of logistics, and otherwise contribute to the establishment of sustainable systems of logistics.

- Organized by: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism; Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; Japan Federation of Freight Industries, Japan Institute of Logistics Systems Supported by: Japan Federation of Economic Organizations

- Established: April 2005- Membership: 3,353 members (as of February 17, 2016) --- Logistics Companies, Cargo Owners, each of the industry associations, think tanks, research institutes- Introduction and commendation of excellent businesses as well as holding discussions regarding Green Logistics aimed towards the expansion of voluntary efforts in the private sector aimed

at reducing CO2 emissions.

(Manager: Takehiko Sugiyama, Vice-Director General of the Institution for Transport Policy Studies and Director-General of the Institute for Transport Policy Studies)

8-1-3

Source) MLIT

(6) Promoting low carbonization of railways, ships, and aviationa. Initiatives contributing to further enhance environmental performance in the railway sector

While rail has a smaller environmental impact than other modes of transportation, we are promoting the adoption of

railroad-related facilities tied to the Ministry of the Environment and systems that help railway carriages generate a

smaller carbon footprint and save energy and promoting the development of technologies to help improve environmental



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performance in order to further reduce the impact that rail has on the environment.

b. Initiatives for energy conservation and low carbonization in shippingWe are promoting energy conservation for ships in the area of coastal shipping by advancing the construction of vessels

that contribute to energy conservation and supporting the demonstration of innovative energy-saving technologies. From

the standpoint of advancing the development of an international framework and disseminating and promoting the

development of technologies on an integrated basis in the area of international shipping, we have been supporting the

private-sector development of technologies for the purpose of further reducing CO2 emissions from vessels since FY 2013

and spearheading IMO discussions on progressively fortifying regulations governing CO2 emissions (fuel-efficiency

regulations) and on creating an international framework that includes a program for reporting fuel efficiency (by which

fuel efficiency during actual operations can be visualized).

c. Initiatives to reduce CO2 emissions in aviationWe are advancing the implementation of area navigation (RNAV), which enables shortening flight time and distance

and the User Preferred Route (UPR) method, which allows the flight to have the most efficient altitude desired by the

pilot, as well as enhancing aerial traffic systems by implementing the Continuous Descent Operation (CDO) which

sustains minimal engine output by continuously descending without leveling out at any point during descent. We also

promote the use of ground power units (GPU) for airplanes and ecological cars such as Ground Service Equipment

(GSE) vehicles as a part of Eco Airport (eco friendly airport) activities. Furthermore, we are strengthening international

initiatives, such as participating in the Asia and Pacific Initiative to Reduce Emissions (ASPIRE) where air traffic control

authorities and airline companies cooperate to attain efficiency in flying. We are also leading the discussion to develop a

global scheme to reduce CO2 emissions from international aviation. Furthermore, the efforts to promote the use of

alternative aviation fuels are being conducted, collaborating with the various stakeholders.

(7) Enhancing energy-saving capabilities in housing and buildingsThe rise in the amount of energy consumed by the civilian sector is more prominent than in other sectors, which makes

improving energy-saving capabilities in housing and buildings an urgent task.

In response to the fact that the basic energy plan will progressively mandate that new dwellings and buildings comply

with energy-saving standards by 2020, the Act for Improving the Energy-Consumption Performance of Buildings

(Building Energy-Saving Act), which sets forth measures for mandating compliance with energy-saving standards on the

part of buildings above a certain size other than dwellings and measures with respect to a program for certifying buildings

demonstrating excellent energy-saving performance and a program for indicating energy-saving performance, was

promulgated in July 2015.

In order to communicate energy-saving performance to consumers in an easy-to-understand manner, efforts are

underway to upgrade and disseminate a housing-performance indication system, CASBEE, the Building Energy-efficiency

Labeling System (BELS), and other such programs.

Aside from this, in order to promote energy saving/decreasing CO2 emissions for housing and buildings, MLIT is

supporting various efforts, such as businesses that award points—which can be exchanged with various merchandise—for

building new eco-housing or doing eco-reforms, the introducing of cutting-edge CO2 emissions decreasing technology

and energy conserving renovation, as well as efforts by small and medium-sized contractors in building zero energy

housing and certified low-carbon housing and buildings, while also lowering the interest rate by using the Japan Housing

Finance Agency’s securitization support business framework. In addition, it is working for the development and

dissemination of things like the design and construction technology of energy-saving houses and buildings through

holding workshops for design and construction professionals and providing support for the technological development of

the leading private firms.

Furthermore, in order to stimulate energy-saving measures in pre-existing establishments, we are formulating supportive

taxation measures for renovation work towards energy conservation in already existing residences and buildings.

(8) Promotion of energy-saving methods in sewageThe reduction of carbon monoxide is being advanced by the implementation of energy-saving measures such as high



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efficiency equipment for sewage treatment, and with new energy measures such as the processing of raw sewage into

solid fuel, and the high temperature incineration of raw sewage.

(9) Promotion of environmental measures for construction machineryMLIT is implementing a system that gives type approval for construction machinery, such as hydraulic shovels and

bulldozers, that meet the fuel consumption standards for major construction machinery. In addition, we support the

purchasing of construction machinery that has been certified by said system by things such as low-interest financing

plans.

(10) Implementation of CO2 sink measures through urban greeningUrban greening is considered re-vegetation activities, which is subject to the greenhouse gas sink reports according to

the Kyoto Protocol. Based on the basic plans for greening as formulated by the municipalities, we are promoting

maintenance of city parks and the greening of communal facilities and private land, such as roads and ports.

MLIT is also working on public awareness regarding the meaning and effect of CO2 sink measures by making cities

more low carbon and green by alleviating the heat island phenomenon through improvement in the thermal environment

by things like improving ground covering.

3 Promotion of the Use of Renewable Energy

According to the “Energy Master Plan” which was approved by the Cabinet in April 2014 and based on the fact that

that the introduction of re-usable energy is being expedited as much as possible for three years starting in 2013, MLIT is

promoting use of the re-usable energy potential in extensive infrastructure spaces like airport facilities, as well as rivers

and streams, and the stable yet abundant sewage biomass.

(1) Promotion of the use of marine renewable energySurrounded by the sea on all sides, Japan is blessed with abundant sources of marine renewable energy. Offshore wind-

power generation is especially expected to grow and expand in the future and ports and harbors in particular are garnering

attention as sites for the installation of wind-power generation facilities.

To this end, the Port and Harbor Bureau released a manual outlining the installation process in June 2012 and draft

technical guidelines that can be technical determination standards to be applied when conducting screening for the

granting of permission for the proprietary use of a water area in March 2015. In FY 2015, efforts were undertaken to

create a system for determining, through public participation, parties able to apply for the proprietary use of areas

corresponding to ports and harbors with a view to promoting the smooth installation of offshore wind-power generation

facilities in ports and harbors. Operational guidelines have also been formulated along these lines.

For marine energy such as wave and tidal power, MLIT is working on guidelines to secure the safety/environmental

aspects of floating power generating facilities and promoting the realization of new re-useable marine energy in cooperation

with the concerned government ministries.

(2) Promoting small hydroelectric generationAs initiatives toward a low carbon society, the implementation of small hydroelectric generation by using rivers is

being pushed forward. Specifically, MLIT is working on the thorough use of unused energy by the promotion of subsidiary

power generating based on a registration system, providing project formation support by field contact points, and support

for the introduction of small-scale hydropower facilities at sediment control dams, as well as the proactive introduction of

power generation facilities for dam management at dams directly controlled by MLIT.

(3) Promotion of the use of Sewage BiomassThe MLIT is promoting the use of energy derived from sewage sludge and the use of sewage heat.

In May 2015, the Sewerage Act was amended, thereby allowing heat exchangers to be attached to sewage conduits by

private businesses and mandating efforts to be undertaken by sewage administrators to reutilize sewage sludge as a source

of energy or fertilizer. Through the use of PPP/PFI, we will promote the energy utilization of sewage sludge by the use of



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bio-gas and solid fuel, as well as the use of sewage heat as renewable energy heat.

ColumnHydrogen production from sewage sludge, which can power cars!

Column

The Sewerage Law amended in May, 2015, incorporates the obligation of public sewerage system administrators to make efforts to utilize sewage sludge as energy. The utilization of sewage sludge energy includes biogas power generation, solid fuel production, etc., but in recent years, the hydrogen production from sewage sludge has attracted attention.

The sewage sludge-derived hydrogen has various merits in multiple aspects, such as reduction of environment loads because hydrogen production from fossil fuel emits CO2, and contribution to local production and local consumption of energy through the use of regional resources, so people place big hopes on the hydrogen production from sewage sludge.■ Efforts to produce and utilize hydrogen from sewage sludge :[Hydrogen Leader City Project - Demonstration of hydrogen generation from sewage biogas source -]

Under this project, four parties, including Mitsubishi Kakoki Kaisha, Ltd., Fukuoka-city, Kyushu University, and Toyota Tsusho Corporation, have constructed facilities at real-scale level for demonstrations and been conducting verification tests on whether hydrogen can be stably produced from sewage sludge. They have also been studying the use of CO2 generated in the process.

The project started in FY 2014, and so far, the test results have shown stable production of hydrogen.

CH4　 60 %

CO2　40 %

CO2

Membrane separator

① ②

③

CH4 : 97%

８章コラム

Developing a loop for the street in front of Sapporo Station (with Side Reservation)

Sewage bio-gas Methane gas

Water vapor

Hydrogengenerator

High-purity hydrogen

AbsorptionAbsorption

[Consideration of the use of hydrogen derived from sewage sludge]In the “Review Committee on the utilization of sewerage resources in ‘Hydrogen Society’”, convened in

FY 2015, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) carried out feasibility studies on the production and utilization of hydrogen from sewage sludge, while using wastewater treatment facilities of Hirosaki-city, Saitama prefecture, and Yokohama-city as models, and had discussions on issues in technical, institutional, and financial aspects, and on the solutions.



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(4) Promotion of Solar Power Generation using Infrastructure SpaceBased on the changes in energy supply and demand triggered by the Great Eastern Japanese Earthquake, and in addition

to the effective utilization of the vast spaces of sewage treatment plants, ports and harbors, and airport facilities, steps have

been taken to insure the installation and placement of solar power generation facilities by public entities in public

infrastructure spaces, such as government buildings and railway stations, and for private businesses that can install such

facilities in roads and urban parks.

(5) Promotion of contribution towards the hydrogen societyWith the need for hydrogen energy expected to expand in the future, such as fuel cells for residential use (introduced

to the market in 2009) and fuel-cell cars (introduced to the market in 2014), MLIT is working on realizing a hydrogen

energy fueled society by preparing a conducive environment for the manufacturing, storage/transportation and usage of

hydrogen.

a. Promotion of dissemination of fuel-cell carsTo work towards the world’s fastest dissemination of fuel-cell cars, MLIT will support fuel-cell car introduction

projects by private businesses. MLIT will also steadily pursue the technological development of hydrogen energy, as it is

important to achieve early utilization of things like fuel-cell buses and fuel-cell forklifts, as they are projected to create a

relatively consistent demand for hydrogen.

b. Initiatives for the commercialization of vessels powered by hydrogen fuel cellsWe are developing a foundation for enabling private-sector companies to participate in efforts to promote the use of

hydrogen in the maritime sector, such as by conducting studies on the commercialization of hydrogen fuel cell-powered

vessels with exceptional environmental capabilities and formulating safety guidelines.

c. Setting up the marine transportation system for liquefied hydrogenSince FY 2015, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and other companies have been producing hydrogen through the use of

brown coal, an unutilized energy source in Australia, and implementing a project to establish a supply chain for transporting

liquid hydrogen to Japan in connection with a project implemented by the METI to verify the establishment of a supply

chain for hydrogen derived from unutilized energy sources.

To this end, the MLIT has, in conjunction with these initiatives, spearheaded efforts to set global safety standards

needed for the safe marine transportation of liquid hydrogen on a multilateral basis through the IMO (International

Maritime Organization). In order to establish a safe, highly efficient method of loading and unloading liquid hydrogen,

energy carriers associated with the Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) have been engaging in research and

■ Future initiatives The amount of biogas generated from sewage

sludge in FY 2013 was approximately 330 million Nm3, but approximately 30% (89 million Nm3) was just incinerated, so the gas is not fully effectively used. If producing hydrogen from the unused biogas, the amount would be equivalent to that which can fill fuel cell vehicles 2.7 million times. Like this, the hydrogen production from sewage sludge has a great potential.

MLIT promotes efforts toward realization of supply and utilization of hydrogen from sewage sludge, one of renewable energy, through support for technology development, for project formulation by feasibility studies, and for commercialization.

MIRAI, a hydrogen fuel cell-powered car, and a hydrogen fueling station

CH4　 60 %

CO2　40 %

CO2

Membrane separator

① ②

③

CH4 : 97%

８章コラム

Developing a loop for the street in front of Sapporo Station (with Side Reservation)

Sewage bio-gas Methane gas

Water vapor

Hydrogengenerator

High-purity hydrogen

AbsorptionAbsorption

Source) MLIT


Section 2 Promoting the creation of a recycling society

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development since FY 2014 on loading systems for liquid hydrogen in collaboration with the Cabinet Office.

4 Promotion of Global Warming Countermeasures (Adaptation measures)

In order to comprehensively and systematically promote initiatives that are consistently backed by the entire government

in response to the various consequences of climate change, the first national plan for adaptation to the impact of climate

change was adopted by Cabinet decision in November 2015.

As the role ascribed to adaptation measures put forth by the MLIT, which has jurisdiction over the maintenance of

national land and other areas and which is in charge of the safe and secure development of national land and regions, is

considerable, the MLIT climate change adaptation plan, which summarizes adaptation measures to be implemented by the

MLIT, was formulated and publicly released on the same day as the adaptation plan put forth by the government.

While the MLIT has proactively promoted measures for dealing with river water flooding, inland water flooding,

sediment-related disasters, storm surges, droughts, and other water related disasters as part of adaptation measures taken

to date, adaptation measures that are comprehensive in both structural and non-structural terms shall be studied and

deployed based on the formulation of the MLIT climate change adaptation plan.


1 Advancing recycling in construction

Construction waste accounts for approximately 20% of all industrial waste, and 20% of final disposed amount.

Suppression of the generation of construction waste, and recycling and reuse of those waste are major tasks. In FY 2012,

approximately 73 million tons of construction waste was generated nationwide. The recycling/reduction rate stood at 96.0

percent, which is higher than it was for other industrial sectors. Despite such positive results, certain issues will need to

be addressed at this point in time, including an increase in the amount of construction by-products generated by maintenance

and renovation work required to prop up aging social infrastructure and by construction work relating to the Tokyo

Olympic and Paralympic Games and an increase in the amount of construction-generated soil derived from large-scale

tunneling projects.

Sewage sludge also accounts for 20% of all industrial waste, reaching approximately 77 million tons in FY 2013. We

are working on recycling and reduction of sewage sludge.

Figure II-8-2-1 Amount of Industrial Waste by Industry Sector and Recycle Rate of Construction By-products

Subject materials Index 2005Performance 2008Performance 2012PerformanceAsphalt,

concrete clusters Recycle rate (%)98.6 98.4 99.5

98.1 97.3 99.3Concrete clusters

Construction generated woodRecycling and reduction rate (%)

90.7 89.4 94.4

Construction sludge 74.5 85.1 85.0

Construction mixed waste Produced amount (ten thousand tons) 293 267(9% decrease in comparison to 2005)

280(5% decrease compared to 2005)

Total construction waste Recycling and reduction rate (%) 92.2 93.7 96.0

Construction generated soil Efficient utilization rate (%) 80.1 78.6 88.3

*Reduction refers to reducing the amount of waste through incineration, dehydration, or other processes.

Source) MLIT “2012 Construction By-products Status Survey”

Source) Prepared by the MLIT from “Status on Production and Disposal of Industrial Waste” (FY2013 results) of the Ministry of Environment

Electricity, Gas, Heat Supply,

Water25.5%

Electricity, Gas, Heat Supply,

Water25.5%

Agriculture,Forestry21.6%

Agriculture,Forestry21.6%

Other12.8%Other12.8%

Chemical3.3%

Construction20.9%

Construction20.9%

Iron and Steel8.0%

Iron and Steel8.0%

Pulp, Paper, Paper Products

7.9%

Pulp, Paper, Paper Products

7.9%

(1) Advancing recycling in constructionBased on the “Construction Material Recycling Act (Construction Recycling Law)”, we are working to enforce proper

measures through a simultaneous patrol throughout Japan.

In the “Construction Recycling Promotion Measures Subcommittee” that have been formed in both the Environment

Committee of the Panel of Infrastructure Development and the Environment Committee of the Transport System Section

of the Council for Transport Policy, the relevant parties involved in construction recycling put together the “Measures

related to the Promotion of Construction Recycling”, a recommendation to promote mid-term objectives for the recycling



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and appropriate disposal of construction by-products for the future, and MLIT formulated the fourth action plan, the

“2014 Construction Recycling Promotion Plan” in September 2014.

According to this plan, the MLIT will be promoting construction recycling by working on fortifying the monitoring of

construction by-products distribution, inhibiting occurrence before the start of construction, promoting recycling/reduction

by thorough on-site sorting and delivery to recycling facilities, promoting use of recycled materials, and promoting the

efficient use and appropriate disposal of construction sludge.

Figure II-8-2-2 Data on Construction By-products

81

98 98.7 98.6 98.4 99.5

65

96 97.5 98.1 97.399.3

14

41

68.6

74.5

85.0

78.6

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

1995 2000 2002 2005 2008 2012(Year)

11

9

36.027.7

39.3

58.2

11

9

36.027.7

39.3

58.2

Recycling/R

eduction Rate

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

50

100

150

200

20002000 20022002 20052005 20082008 20122012

284

1.8 1.8 1.8

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0.0

1.9 1.9

245

195

141141

Amount of soil carried-out off-site

Amount of carried-in soil used

Amount of soil carried-out off-site / Am

ount of carried-in soil used

(%)

85.1

32

61

83.080.1

88.385.1

32

61

83.080.1

88.3

(1,000,000m3)

156129

10775 78

8-2-2

40

83

89.3 90.7

89.4 94.4

40

83

89.3 90.7

89.4 94.4

Asphalt, concrete clustersConstruction generated wood (reduction included)Construction mixed waste (reduction included)

Concrete clustersConstruction sludge (reduction included)

Construction generated soil

Amount carried-in

Amount carried-out

Carried-out/Carrie-in

Source) MLIT

(2) Reducing sewage sludge and promoting recyclingMLIT is promoting the recycling of sewage sludge (FY 2013 recycle rate 62%) and moving forward with the use of

sewage sludge made into solid fuel for energy, as well as the recovery and use of phosphorus from sewage sludge.

Furthermore, we are proceeding with the Breakthrough by Dynamic Approach in Sewage High Technology Project

(B-DASH Project) for proving innovative technology and systems for the effective use of sewage based resources.

2 Constructing a resource recycling logistics system

(1) Forming a resource recycling logistics system by utilizing shippingIn order to form the “loop” of reusable resources for creating a recycling society, MLIT have specified 22 ports

throughout Japan as Recycle Ports (Integrated Reverse Logistic Base Port) for wide-spread flows concerning reusable

resources. At the Recycle Ports, they undertake activities such as securing coastal facilities like wharfs, aiding in

establishing facilities for handling reusable resources, promoting the public-private partnership, and improvements in

operations related to handling reusable resources. MLIT have partnered with the Ministry of the Environment to engage

in efforts to promote modal shifting and lower the carbon footprint and costs of reverse logistics through improvements

in transportation efficiency through the “Project to Promote Low-Carbon Type Reverse Logistics by Model Shift /

Transport Efficiency”. In addition, as a participating member of “Disaster Waste Treatment Support Network (D-Waste-

Net)” the Council to Promote Recycling Ports has been appointed by the Minister of the Environment.



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Figure II-8-2-3 Specified Recycle Ports

Ishikari Bay New Port

Tomakomai Port

Muroran Port

Noshiro Port Hachinohe Port

Sakata Port Kamaishi PortHimekawa Port

Kawasaki Port

Tokyo Port

Kisarazu Port

Mikawa Port

Sakai PortMaizuru Port

Kobe Port

Himeji PortMishima Kawanoe Port

Tokuyamakudamatsu Port

Kitakyushu Port

Miike Port

Nakagusukuwan Port

Ube Port

●May 30, 2002●April 23, 2003●December 19, 2006●January 28, 2011

(5 ports)(13 ports)(3 ports)(1 port)

(Storage facilities for contaminated soil, etc.)

(Guard-fenced, tire-washing, and water-collecting facility)

Recyclables Handling Support Facility

Source) MLIT

(2) Systematic acquirement of bay area landfill sites for wasteBay area landfills are being prepared in order to receive dredge soil produced by harbor improvement, or to receive

waste materials that have difficulty finding final landfill sites. In the Osaka Bay area in particular, regional waste disposal

sites are being developed to receive waste generated around the Osaka Bay area through the Osaka Bay Phoenix Project Note 1. Construction-generated soil generated in the Tokyo Metropolitan Area is transported by sea and used widely for

land-reclamation purposes in ports and harbors across the country in accordance with the Super Phoenix Plan Note 2.

3 Recycling vehicles and marine vessels

(1) Recycling vehiclesIn accordance with the Act on Recycling, etc. of End-of-Life Vehicles (Act for automobile recycling), a system for

confirming that end-of-life vehicles are scrapped, is being implemented. Where a deletion of vehicle registration as

provided for in the Road Transport Vehicle Act is undertaken, the vehicle weight tax that had been levied on the used

vehicle will be subject to a refund program. We are endeavoring to promote the proper disposition of used vehicles and

prevent illegal dumping. In FY 2014, vehicles confirmed to have been scrapped numbered 1,463,151.

Note 1 Business to promote the orderly development of the port by properly disposing in the sea landfill the waste generated from the 2 cities, 4 prefectures and 168 municipalities of the Kinki region.

Note 2 A Mechanism for adjusting at the national level, the soil from construction in metropolitan areas to use it effectively as resources for port construction in ports that need landfill materials.



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(2) Recycling marine vesselsThe recycling of large vessels (ship recycle) Note 1 has generally been conducted in developing nations such as

Bangladesh and India, where the frequent occurrence of human casualty accidents and marine pollution in the facilities

continue to raise concern. In order to solve these issues, Japan lead discussions with the International Maritime Organization

(IMO), which resulted in the adoption of the “2009 Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally

Sound Recycling of Ships (tentative name) (Ship Recycling Convention)”. This convention mandates the inspection and

retention of proof documents for marine vessels and ship recycling facilities respectively, and also bans the use of asbestos

or polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in newly built vessels.

In Japan, studies are being carried out on enacting domestic laws required for conclusion of the Ship Recycling

Convention with the aim of enforcing this convention as soon as possible. Conclusion by key recycling countries is also

needed to put this convention into effect. At meetings held in 2014 and 2015 between Prime Minister Abe, representing

Japan, and Prime Minister Modi, representing India—which is the world’s largest recycling country, requests were made

for Japanese support concerning improvements to be made to ship recycling facilities based in India. The MLIT has

extended technical support for making improvements to facilities in India and is promoting cooperation for concluding

the Ship Recycling Convention. Through initiatives attributed to public-private cooperation in both countries,

improvements are being made to certain facilities. In 2015, the facilities of four companies were certified as conforming

to the standards as provided for in the Convention by a third-party organization (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai).

On other fronts, because privately owned pleasure boats are mostly made of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP), which is

difficult to dispose, there has been a demand for a waste processing route for proper disposal. In response, we undertook

activities in building a processing route, as well as developing recycling technologies for FRP boats. As a result,

approximately 450 FRP vessels are properly recycled yearly under the leadership of the Japan Marine Industry Association

throughout Japan since 2005.

4 Efforts in Green Procurement Note 2

In light of partial revisions to the basic government policies, based on the “Law Concerning the Promotion of

Procurement of Eco-Friendly Goods and Services by the State and Other Entities (Law on Promoting Green Purchasing)”,

the “Policy for promoting the procurement of ecologically friendly goods, etc.” was adopted. Based on this policy, we are

actively advancing the procurement of ecology-friendly goods for building materials, construction machinery, method of

construction, and objectives in public construction work.

Note 1 Vessels that have reached the end of their operational use are dismantled, and the majority of the parts are re-used as steel.Note 2 Procuring eco-friendly goods that are defined under Article 2 in the “Green Purchasing Law” is called Green Procurement here.


Section 3 National land development that revives and preserves the natural environment

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5 Promoting the use of wooden building materials

Because wood is an environment-friendly building

material due to reasons such as requiring less energy to

process in comparison to other materials, and long-term

utilization in various applications contributing to preventing

global warming and forming a recycling-oriented society,

we strive to encourage the utilization of wooden materials

in public construction.

Based on the “Act for Promotion of Use of Wood in

Public Buildings”, etc., national implementation status of

wood usage promotion is published every year, and the

“Plan for the promotion of the use of wood in public

buildings” was formulated to work on the use of wood as

building materials and for the interior of buildings. MLIT is

working to set up technical standards relating to designing

and building, and to disseminate these standards.

In order to advance the development of wooden

dwellings and buildings, various initiatives are being

undertaken, such as by providing support for the

development of long-life quality wooden housing and certified low-carbon housing made using local materials, zero

energy houses, certified low-carbon buildings and other quality wooden buildings, and large wooden buildings

incorporating pioneering design and construction technologies; developing local programs for the production of wooden

housing; and training leaders.


1 Initiatives for preserving biodiversity

As efforts towards the Strategic Plan 2011 to 2020 (objective for the Aichi prefecture), adopted at the COP10 held in

Nagoya city, Aichi prefecture in October of 2010, we are currently advancing activities for its achievement. Furthermore,

the “National Biodiversity Strategy 2012 to 2020” was formulated in September of 2012, and we have decided to continue

the advancement in activities for preserving, reviving, and creating animal habitats in rivers, urban green lands, coastal

regions, harbors, and roads.

In October 2011, as reference material for municipalities formulating a basic plan for greening, the “Items for Technical

Consideration in Securing Biodiversity in the Basic Plan for Greening”, which summarizes the items that need to be

considered in securing biodiversity, was formulated. Further, in May 2013, MLIT formulated the “Urban Biodiversity

Index (draft)” to evaluate the progress of the conditions and enforcement of biodiversity by the local governments, and is

promoting the efforts of local governments to secure urban biodiversity. In March 2015, the Ministry of the Environment,

together with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries formulated the “Non-native Species Damage Preventative

Action Plan” in order to comprehensively and effectively promote Japan’s non-native species countermeasures as well as

to protect and continually enjoy the rich biodiversity of Japan.

2 Creating rich and beautiful river environments

(1) Creating and conserving a healthy river environment(i) Creating a rich river environment and stimulating revival

In river development, based on the “Basic Guideline for Rich River Development (established in October 2006)”, we

work for the conservation and restoration of animal habitats and diverse river scenery, while concurrently sustaining

safety over flood control.

Figure II-8-2-4

Examples of the Use of Wooden Build-ing MaterialConference room, Hiratsuka Govern-ment Office Building

Source) MLIT



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While promoting the restoration of marshland by nature restoration projects and the improvement of the upstream and

downstream migration environment for fish by fixing the fish passage ways, we are also promoting the protection and

restoration of the watershed ecosystem with the goal of forming an ecosystem network Note by cooperating with various

entities, as demonstrated in the project of rehabilitating storks to the wilds in Maruyama River (Toyooka City, Hyogo

Prefecture).

Moreover, to effectively proceed with these activities, we are joining efforts with educated experts and various

institutions, as well as utilizing research findings of government inspections of river areas and the Aqua Restoration

Research Center, which has the largest experimental waterway in the world.

(ii) Countermeasures for non-native species in the waterwaysNon-native species, which are one of the threats against biodiversity, have been expanding their habitat in the waterways

all over Japan. As a countermeasure, we have circulated information such as the “Guideline for Countermeasures for Non-

native Plants in Rivers” and “Examples of Countermeasures for Non-native Fishes (December 2013)” and are implementing

measures against foreign species in various locations.

(2) Initiatives to recover the water supply in riversIn order to preserve a healthy river environment, it is essential to sustain a rich supply of water. For this reason, we have

specified the required amount of water in the basic policies for river improvement, based on the habitat of plants and

animals, scenery, and water quality. In addition to working to sustain the supply, we are proceeding with activities for

clean river recovery in recession areas downstream from dams of hydroelectric power plants. Meanwhile, in order to

preserve the river environment downstream of dams, flowing water is being retained in flood-control reservoirs to the

extent that flood-control functions are not impeded and usable discharge dams are subject to elastic management practices

and elastic management testing. (Water was retained using eighteen dams in total in FY 2015, sixteen of which were

subject to the usable discharge of water.) Initiatives concerning medium-sized flash discharging to cause changes in river

formations are also being undertaken. Furthermore, we are working to restore the water supply of rivers in urban areas,

where the average amount of naturally flowing water has diminished, by pumping treated water from sewage plants.

(3) Promoting activities in the comprehensive management of sediment from mountains to coastal areasConcerned that water systems will accelerate problems

such as variation in river environments caused by changes

in sedimentary flow, diminishing sand supplies to the coast,

and coastal erosion caused by changes in littoral drift,

relevant institutions are working in cooperation to

comprehensively control sediment flowing down from

mountains to coastal areas. Specifically, in order to deal

with the problem caused by the sediment flowing in

mountain streams, dams, waterways and the coasts, in

cooperation with the relevant organizations, MLIT is

working on projects for formulating comprehensive

sediment management plans for effective sediment

management and building check dams, making existing

dams permeable so that sediment can be effectively washed downstream, creating an effective flow of sediment by

sediment bypasses for dams, and recovering of sandy beaches by such methods as appropriate sand and gravel extraction

of the waterways, sand bypass and littoral nourishment.

Note Using districts which have excellent natural conditions as core areas and by connecting them organically to ensure the appropriate placement and connections between habitat spaces.

Figure II-8-3-1Initiatives in the Comprehensive Man-agement over Sediment

Slit dams

Sand elimination from dam using sediment bypass

Dune recovery using sand bypass

Deposit sediment

Collect sediment

Regulations on gravel quarrying

Coastal erosion

Riverbed degradation

Progression of sedimentation

Large-scale sediment run-off

Source) MLIT



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(4) Environmental education on riversAs natural environments close to communities, recently, rivers host a variety of activities such as environmental studies

and natural experience activities. In addition, we are promoting projects and disseminating of information so children can

safely learn and play by riversides. Because there are hidden dangers and proper knowledge is essential for safe activity,

we cooperate with the NPO River Activities Council (RAC), a citizens’ groups which played a central role in establishment,

to promote the cultivation of river administrators.

Also, in order to widely disseminate environmental education on rivers in the schools, MLIT is providing information

to textbook publishers to introduce environmental education projects.

○ Children’s Riverside Rediscovery Project

With the cooperation of citizens’ groups, educators, and river administrators, rivers are registered as Children’s

Riversides and receive various means of support from the Center for Supporting Children’s Riverside Activities. 300

locations are registered as of the end of March 2015.

○ Riverside Fun School Project

Utilization is encouraged for riversides that are registered as Children’s Riversides and undergo riverside improvements

required for enhancing experiential activities. 286 locations are registered as of the end of March 2015.

○ National Aquatic Organism Study

Conducted with the goal to increase interest in rivers through a survey of life forms found in nearby rivers. In FY 2014,

59,053 people participated. 61% of the inspection points (2,252 points) were judged to have “clean water”.

3 Preserving and improving coastal environments

Because we must preserve animal habitats, care for scenery, and sustain appropriate usage of beaches, while protecting

the coast from storm surges, tsunamis, and high waves, we are proceeding with maintenance and conservation that

balances between “defense”, “environment”, and “usage”.

In addition, based on the “Law for Protecting Beautiful and Rich Nature through the Promotion of Disposing Beached

Coastal Waste contributing to the Preservation of Coastal Scenery and Conservation of the Environment (Coastal Waste

Disposal Promotion Act)”, we implement effective measures for beached waste in close cooperation with relevant

institution in the future.

Support is being provided for efforts to deal with large-scale debris that drifts ashore and impedes the functions of

coastal protection facilities through an emergency project for dealing with large driftwood and other debris items coming

ashore in connection with disasters. This project enables concerned parties to process such debris in a concerted, efficient

manner.

We are also providing support for the processing of neglected and stranded vessels and the removal of slime that

abnormally accumulates in sea areas in order to secure the functions of coastal protection facilities, conserve the coastal

environment, and facilitate the proper use of coastal areas.

4 Greening port and harbor administration

(1) Basic direction of future port and harbor environment policiesIn order for ports and harbors in Japan to uphold their position as grounds for logistics, industry and living, and sustain

continual growth, they must recover as much degraded or lost nature as they can, and incorporate environmental

conservation in various port functions. For this reason, we are working towards greening port administration, which

involves the two parts of port and harbor development and utilization, and conservation, revival, and creation of

environments in to one consolidated subject.



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Figure II-8-3-2 Greening port administration

Utilization of natural energyUtilization of natural energy

Floating and sunken waste, and oil recovery vesselsFloating and sunken waste, and oil recovery vessels

Natural restoration and disposal of sludge of dioxins, etc.

Natural restoration and disposal of sludge of dioxins, etc.

Dredged soilDredged soil

Recycled productsRecycled products

Waste disposal sitesWaste disposal sites

Recycling port

Back-fillingBack-filling

Pits from deep diggingPits from deep digging

Operation and management in cooperation with the community

Operation and management in cooperation with the community

Artificial tidal flats

Rooftop gardeningRooftop gardening

Wildlife reserveWildlife reserveUrban areasUrban areas

Tidal beachesArtificial beaches

Fishing facilities

Mitigation

Harmonized ocean banks

AerationAeration

Landfill Sludge dredging(dioxins, etc.)Sludge dredging(dioxins, etc.)

VOC processingLand-based electrical supply equipment for ships

VOC processingLand-based electrical supply equipment for ships

Countermeasures for exhaust gas produced by cargo handling facilitiesCountermeasures for exhaust gas produced by cargo handling facilities

Formation of good port and harbor scenery (unification of color)

Formation of good port and harbor scenery (unification of color)

Environmentally friendly seawallsEnvironmentally friendly seawalls

Advanced waste-water treatment in sewers

Historical Port Facilities

PromenadeDomestic trading unitRoad terminal

PlantPlant

Diversion of large-sized trucks from urban areasDiversion of large-sized trucks from urban areas

Boat parking(specification of restrictedareas for boat parking)

Boat parking(specification of restrictedareas for boat parking)

Reusable resourcesReusable resources

Source) MLIT

(2) Actively preserving, reviving, ad creating a healthy environmentWe strive to efficiently utilize dredged sediment derived from harbor maintenance, by usage in creating tidal flats, sand

capping, filling pits from deep digging, and disseminating port facilities that can coexist with organisms. After the projects

have been started, we will continuously monitor the status after maintenance by implementing adaptable management

methods. Various organizations such as administrative agencies and research institutes will register environmental data

and construct a sharable database on the ocean environment; gathering, accumulating and analyzing data. Together, we

actively work to preserve, revive and create a rich natural environment in coastal areas.

In addition, the “Seaside Nature School”, which utilizes the areas preserved, revived or created, is being held in various

locations throughout Japan as an effort to create opportunities for learning the importance of the natural environment.

(3) Initiatives in measures for preventing illegal boat parkingAs there is concern that parked boats may mar the scenery, affect the navigation of other vessels, and cause secondary

damage in the event of a tsunami, regulatory measures are being implemented, such as by improving the mooring and

storage capacity of small vessels and by designating no-parking zones.

In order to verify the effects of measures as provided for in a promotion plan consisting of comprehensive measures for

properly managing pleasure boats and improving their usage environment, as formulated in May 2013, a national survey

of actual pleasure boat conditions was conducted in 2014 and the results of this survey were publicly released in June

2015.


Section 4 Maintenance or Recovery of a Healthy Water Cycle

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5 Greening roads and promoting natural environmental measures

Greening roads is crucial for providing a comfortable

atmosphere for those who use them, creating favorable

scenery that matches the surrounding scenery, and as a

countermeasure against heat island effects.To this end, we

are promoting the favorable greening of roads and the

appropriate management of this process in accordance with

technical standards pertaining to the greening of roads. To

prepare for the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in

2020, we are also endeavoring to green roads and initiatives

for comprehensive measures to keep road surface

temperature from rising.


1 Aiming to maintain a society in which the blessings of water can be savored for a long time to come

Thus far, the development of water resources development facilities were promoted because of the priority placed on

ensuring the balance of water supply and demand in response to the rapid increase in water demand in the post-war high-

growth period. On the other hand, there is concern that global warming will usher in reduced amounts of annual

precipitation, reduced amounts of snowfall accumulations, the earlier melting of snow, and lower amounts of water that

can be supplied. In anticipation of large-scale-disasters, society demands measures to deal with the obsolescence of water-

related infrastructure, improvements to the water environment, and the maintenance or recovery of a healthy water cycle.

Various challenges that are coming to a head will also need to be addressed, such as in terms of our presence in the area

of international contributions and the fortification of our competitiveness in international markets.

Against such a backdrop, it is important that we shift from efforts to promote the development of water resources on a

demand-driven basis to efforts to secure a stable supply of water on a risk-management basis in order to advance

comprehensive measures for water resources that are shaped by different priorities, including water quality and the natural

environment in addition to the quantity of water, even as we adopt a long-term perspective under conditions of constraint

that affect resources consisting of people, goods, and money. More specific studies will be conducted to ensure the safety

and security of the lives of citizens and of our socio-economic activities and to build a society in which the necessary use

of water can be accommodated.

Figure II-8-3-3Example of Greening Roads (Chiyo-da-ku, Tokyo)

Source) MLIT



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2 Initiatives in improving the water environment

(1) Promoting water purificationThe MLIT is implementing purification

of contaminated water in rivers with

seriously deteriorated water environments

and water purification of dredged bottom

mud. In addition, the local municipalities

that are proactively working on the water

environment improvement and related

institutions, such as river administrators

and sewage work administrators are

working together to formulate the “Second

Water Environment Improvement Urgent

Action Plan (Clear Stream Renaissance

II)” and implementing the plan (formulated

in 32 locations).

(2) Water Quality Survey and Water Quality Accident ResponseWater quality surveys are vital in conserving and maintaining a favorable water environment. In 2014, surveys were

done at 1,080 locations on 109 water systems of Class A rivers.

MLIT is creating of water quality survey maps and conducting surveys of aquatic organisms in cooperation with

citizens. As a result of surveys—which were based on the new water quality index with a multi-faceted evaluation of the

river such as amount of garbage and odors—being conducted on Class A rivers in cooperation with the local residents, in

2014 approximately 22% (65 locations/ 301 locations) were judged to be “rivers that look clean enough for swimming.”

On the other hand, in 2014 there were 1,238 water quality accidents in Class A rivers due to spillage of oils and

chemical substances. In terms of water pollution prevention, Water Pollution Prevention Liaison Councils composed of

river administrators and related institutions have been put in place for all 109 waterways, and they are working on prompt

information communication for incidents of water quality accidents as well as damage prevention by building oil fences.

- For Class A Rivers (including lakes and coastal areas), the proportion of survey sites that met the environmental

standards for BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) or COD (chemical oxygen demand) value was 91% in 2014.

- For environmental standard items relating to the protection of human health (27 items such as arsenic), the proportion

of survey sites that met the environmental standards was approximately 99%, with most sites meeting the standards.

Figure II-8-4-2Ratio of Survey Locations on Class A Rivers (including lakes and coastal areas) where BOD (or COD) Value Met Environmental Standards

66

65 64

6871

70 71

76

71

75

71

74

74

78

75

78

76

79

71

75

74

8087

82

83

83

85 88 88 88 87 88 89 91 91 91 9190 90

50

60

70

80

90

100

1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014(year)

Ratio of locations that met the standards

（%）

Ratio of locations that met the standards

Source) MLIT

(3) Improving the water environment of enclosed coastal seasRegarding the enclosed coastal seas of the Tokyo Bay, Ise Bay, Osaka Bay, and the Seto Inland Sea, because of the

polluting load draining from land and deterioration of purification capacity in ocean areas duo to the loss of tidal flats and

seaweed forests, the fishing industry has suffered damages from the occurrence of red and blue tides. In addition to this,

Figure II-8-4-1 Clear Stream Renaissance II

Water conveyance into rivers

Purification of river water

Permeable pavement

Preservation of park greenery

Improvements to combined sewerage systems

Utilization of recycled water

Utilization of recycled water from advanced treatment

Improvements to sewerage systemsPermeation and retention of rainwater

Dredging rivers, lakes, and marshes

Source) MLIT



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there have been occurrences of environmental deterioration, as well as navigational obstacles to vessels, due to drifting

debris and oil.

To resolve the current state, we advance activities to revive beautiful oceans by (1) sediment dredging, sand capping,

and back-filling pits from mining to improve the substratum, (2) creating habitats for organisms by reviving tidal flats and

seaweed forests and disseminating buildings that can coexist with nature, (3) removing floating waste and oils by using

sea environment maintenance ships, (4) reducing the amount of pollutants released into the ocean by improving sewage

treatment facilities, and (5) developing a system to get various entities to improve the environment in collaboration with

one another.

(4) Stimulating sewage maintenance to improve the water environmentWe will appropriately formulate and review the comprehensive basin-wide planning of sewage systems, and promote

high temperature incineration to remove nitrogen and phosphates which contribute to the eutrophication of enclosed

bodies of water. In addition, we are working for early advancement in improving water quality and stratified advanced

water treatment by partially renovating equipment and facilities in treatment plants that have not yet reached their

scheduled renewal period.

As for the combined sewerage system, we plan to complete implementation of measures by the end of FY 2023 through

controlling the amount of water and the frequency at which untreated water is released in to streams during heavy rains.

3 Cultivating water and using it efficiently

(1) Stable supply of water resourcesIn order to secure stability in the utilization of water, there must be various policies corresponding to the situation of

communities from both standpoints of supply and demand. Specifically, in the facet of demand, there are measures to

strengthen the recovery and reuse of water, and increase awareness for conserving water. In supply, there are measures to

build and maintain facilities to supply water which are water resource development facilities such as dams, implement

countermeasures for aging facilities, and develop crisis management measures, etc. In addition to the sustainable

conservation and use of groundwater, and promotion of utilizing rainwater and recycled water, based on the “Special

Measures for Water Source Area Act”, work is being done to develop the living environment of the water source area and

the industrial infrastructures, along with prevention of water pollution of the dam reservoirs.

There is concern that climate change caused by global warming will lead to more frequent, severe droughts that last

longer and give rise to more drought-related damage. For this reason, the MLIT will promote measures to prevent/

mitigate the damage caused by drought, such as strategies to minimize damage at the time of critical droughts.

(2) Efficient use of water resourcesa. Initiatives towards expanding the utilization of recycled water derived from sewage

Stable amounts of recycled water can be secured and is a valuable water resource in urban areas. Of all the treated

sewage, approximately 1.5% undergoes treatment according to purpose, and recycled water is used in streams, sustaining

water levels of rivers and the sanitation of toilets. We aim to further expand the utilization of recycled water.

b. Promoting the utilization of rain waterIn order to efficiently utilize water resources, initiatives are being promoted to treat and use rainwater and wastewater

from facilities for sanitation of toilets and sprinklers. There are approximately 2,000 facilities utilizing treated water as of

the end of FY 2014, and they use over 8.1 million m3 a year. The “Law for Promoting the Use of Rainwater (2014 Laws,

Issue 17)” was enacted on May 1, 2014, and in March 2015 the “Basic Policy for the Promotion of Rainwater Use” and

the “Goal for Establishing a Facility for the Use of One’s Own Rainwater in Cases Where the Building is Equipped by the

National Government or an Independent Administrative Agency” were established in order to promote the use of rainwater

and thereby facilitate the effective use of water resources. Additionally, the government will formulate and enact

comprehensive measures for the purpose of contributing to the containment of concentrated drain of rainwater to the

sewers and waterways.



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(3) Securing safe, quality waterWith the spread of the waterworks systems, the demand from citizens for safe, delicious water has increased in recent

years, making even greater efforts that emphasize water quality vital.

(4) Promoting measures concerning the permeation of rainwaterDue to the spread of impervious areas in recent years by urban development of drainage basins, more rainwater flows

into rivers in short periods of time instead of being absorbed into the ground. In addition to reducing flood damage from

heavy rains by absorbing as much rainwater as possible into the ground, improvement to rainwater storage penetration

facilities are being promoted through tax measures, for cultivating groundwater, contributing to the revival of springs, and

building a healthy water cycle system.

(5) Advancing the conservation and use of sustainable groundwaterIt takes an extremely long time to recover from damage caused to groundwater, such as in the form of groundwater

pollution or saline contamination. In particular, ground subsidence is an irreversible phenomenon. For this reason, we will

engage in groundwater management in accordance with local conditions in order to prevent groundwater damage,

conserve the ecosystem, protect local groundwater sources, and advance the conservation and use of sustainable

groundwater to be used as a water resource.

4 Realizing amenity by promoting improvements to sanitary drainage

Sewage is the indispensable social infrastructure for the development of healthy cities, treating waste, and preventing

floods. In recent years, sewage systems have been asked to take on new roles in helping to form a low-carbon, recycling-

oriented society and in maintaining or restoring a healthy water cycle.

(1) Dissemination of sewage processing with sanitary drainageAlthough the dissemination of sewage treatment plants

reached around 89% (with the dissemination of sewage

systems at around 78%) of Japan as of the end of FY 2014

(total of 46 prefectures, excluding Fukushima due to the

effects from the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake), there is a

large gap between regions. In particular, the dissemination

rate of sewage treatment plants in small to medium

communities with populations of less than 50,000 people

remain low, only reaching a ratio of approximately 77%

(dissemination rate of sewage systems approximately

50%). Focusing on improvement in areas with high

population density, the advancement of efficient

development in accordance to condition of communities

and the rectification of the gap between communities are

seen as being of the utmost importance for developing

sewage systems in the future.

Figure II-8-4-3Sewage Treatment Population Dissemi-nation Rate by Size of City (FY2014 year-end)

More than 1,000,000 people

500,000 to 1,000,000 people Total

2,914 1,122 1,661 3,114 1,832 1,960 12,602

Population size

Total population (10,000 persons)

0

100

40

30

20

10

90

80

70

60

50

99.5%93.1% 92.6%

88.7%83.5%

76.7%

49.6%

63.7%

76.3%

84.4%86.6%

99.1%Sewage TreatmentPopulationDissemination Rate89.5%

Sewage Treatment PopulationDissemination Rate77.6%

Sewage Treatment Population

Dissemination Rate

Sewage Treatment Population

Dissemination Rate

Dissem

ination rate (%)

300,000 to 500,000 people

100,000 to 300,000 people

50,000 to 100,000 people Less than 50,000

(Note) Due to the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake, the Fukushima prefecture was excluded from the survey.

Source) Prepared by the MLIT from information materials provided by the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries



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a. Initiatives towards the septic system overview in roughly 10 yearsIn regards to the maintenance of sewage treatment

facilities, individual disposal by using septic tanks are

economical in areas where households are widely

distributed throughout a region, while the collective

disposal with sewerage systems and drainage facilities for

agricultural communities become more economical as the

population density rises. For this reason, each prefecture

has established a “Prefectural Plan”, a compiled

maintenance plan over sewerage treatment which reflects

considerations over regional characteristics such as the

economic efficiency and importance of protecting water

quality. Currently, in light of the population decline of

recent years, MLIT is promoting an immediate re-

examination of prefectural schemes and the creation of

mid-term (action plan)/long-term equipping plans, in order

to work towards a septic system overview in roughly 10

years. In addition, efficient means of maintenance are also

being actively promoted through the implementation of

cooperative schemes between other waste water treatment

facilities such as cross-jurisdictional wastewater treatment.

b. Sewage quick projectTaking into account the population decline and the

difficult fiscal situation, this project seeks to widely

introduce—with the cooperation of the district citizens and

verification of the performance by a committee of experts—

maintenance methods that are not stuck in technological

standards of the past, that meets the current conditions of

the district, and that are low-cost, while making early and

flexible maintenance possible. By FY 2014, a social

experiment was conducted in 14 municipalities, and 6

technologies—such as the “Small-Scale Waste-Water

Treatment Facility (contact oxidation method)”—were

determined to be effective, leading to a user’s guide being

put together for the use of these technologies. The

verification/evaluation of the other technologies is in

progress to make nationwide usage possible.

(2) Attaining durability in sewerage projectsa. Proper stock management

Sewage systems possess enormous amounts of stock consisting of approximately 460,000 kilometers of pipes and

conduits and approximately 2,200 terminal treatment stations (as of the end of FY 2014).

As these systems were rapidly developed during and after the period of high economic growth, aging facilities are

expected to rapidly increase in number in the future. Although in FY 2014, mainly small scale issues were arising, road

collapses have occurred in 3,300 places due to corrosion caused by hydrogen sulfide and aging of the conduit facilities.

Because the sewage system is an important social infrastructure which supports the safe and secure social and economic

activities of urban living and provides a lifeline that is difficult to replace with alternative means, there is a necessity to

sustain the required functions by conducting efficient, planned measures to deal with aging facilities through the

introduction of stock management that practices preventative maintenance, while at the same time considering the

Figure II-8-4-4Revision of Sewerage Plans and Fo-cused Improvement

Modification of improvements by community waste-water treatment tank

Reduction of areas scheduled for sewerage maintenance

Wastewater treatment facilities

Urbanized areas

Regions outside

the urbanized areas

Support on a priority basis

Areas already in service

Ｔ

Source) MLIT

Figure II-8-4-5

Example of Implementing the Sewerage Quick Project (Small-Scale Waste-Wa-ter Treatment Facility in Engaru Town, Hokkaido)

Source) MLIT



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introduction of comprehensive private consignment and efficient pipe inspection methods.

In May 2015, the Sewerage Act was amended and standards for maintaining and repairing sewage systems were

established. In response, it was decided that drainage facilities at significant risk of corrosion would be inspected at an

appropriate frequency of at least once every five years and initiatives to ensure sustainable sewage functions are being

undertaken. Under these amendments, a council meeting program for engaging in necessary discussions on widening the

geographic scope of sewage works and forming partnerships among the administrators of sewage works shall be

established and the provision of support to local governments will otherwise be reinforced to ensure the durability of

sewerage projects.

b. Reinforcement of business infrastructureIn the operation of sewerage projects, although it is a fundamental rule to cover costs (excluding portions covered by

public expense) for treating waste water with money acquired from usage fees, the initial establishment requires a lump sum

of funds. Due to the business characteristic in which income begins to stabilize as sewerage systems develop, there are cases

where funds fall short during construction. Accordingly, prospects for income and expenditures tied to individual projects

will need to be examined not on a short-term basis but rather on a long-term basis by taking the length of the service life of

the given facilities into account. Therefore, with the “Guide for restoring financial health in sewage management” we are

pushing initiatives in each municipality for the restoration of financial health in sewage business management.

c. Consigning facility management to private sectors and acquiring technical capabilitiesDeliberations for the introduction of public facilities governance method for sewerage projects, and efforts for making

further use of private sector consignment Note 1 for the maintenance management of sewage treatment plants, are both

moving forward. Based on demands from local public organizations, the Japan Sewage Works Agency provides technical

support for constructing sewage facilities, as well as for optimizing their operation and maintenance, and cultivating

technical experts at local public organizations, while developing new technology.

(3) Revitalizing communities through sewageThe proper treatment of wastewater through improvements in sewage, and the preservation or creation of healthy water

environments, stimulates promotion of tourism and industry. In addition, by creating river fronts using recycled water

from advanced wastewater treatment, stimulating regional activities through the operation and management of water

amenity spaces by citizens, utilizing space above wastewater treatment facilities, transferring sewage heat to be used as

district heating, utilizing bio-gas as energy and efficiently using sewage resources, sewage contributes to regional

vitalization in numerous facets.

(4) Promoting environmental education in the field of sewageWorking groups, consisting of

elementary school teachers and sewage

administrator representatives, created

teacher edition textbooks that were well

suited for classroom use for sewage

education. In order for teachers to freely

make use of these teaching materials

regarding sewers, they are being offered

through the “Sewer Systems, the Path of

Circulation Environmental Education

Portal Site Note 2”. Additionally, subsidies

Note 1 A method of facility management that reflects original ideas of private contractors by consigning details of operation methods in order to optimize operation while charging the responsibility to secure a specified level of capabilities such as sustaining the quality of released water to optimize operation.

Note 2 “The Path of Recycling Sewerage Environmental Education Portal Site” http://www.jswa.jp/kankyo-kyoiku/index.html

Figure II-8-4-6 Environmental Education regarding the Sewerage Sector

Project for Sewerage Environmental Education for Elementary Schools in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka

Source) MLIT


Section 5 Protecting the marine environment

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are granted to each elementary and middle school for supporting environmental education on sewage.

Section 5 Protecting the marine environment

(1) Control policies over large scale oil pollutionIn order to eliminate the substandard vessels (a major factor for large scale oil pollution), Japan actively participates in

international initiatives, such as the formulation of the international shipping database (EQUASIS), while also strengthening

Port State Control (PSC), which checks if vessels meet standards, by conducting on-site inspection of vessels that enter

Japanese ports. While the flag states government have the duty to implement and enforce regulations and standards

developed at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), in order to assess the flag states governments’ performance

of their duties, IMO assembly meeting established the Voluntary IMO Member State Audit Scheme in 2005, based on the

Japan’s proposal. In 2016 the scheme became mandatory, on the bases of evaluation of the progress in addressing the

scheme globally.

In other fronts, as countermeasures for occurrences of large scale oil pollution in the Sea of Japan, Japan is working on

strengthening international cooperation and collaborative systems by drawing up plans such as the “NOWPAP Regional

Oil and HNS Spill Contingency Plan” through the “Northwest Pacific Action Plan (NOWPAP)”, the framework for

joined efforts between Japan, China, Korea and Russia for protecting the marine environment. As for large-scale oil

spillages that occur in domestic waters, measures have been established for prompt and precise response through the

utilization of large-sized trailing suction hopper dredgers.

The MARPOL Convention Note 1 imposes controls on the discharge of oil and garbage by vessels. In Japan, taxation and

other forms of support for the development of facilities to receive waste oil generated inside vessels are being provided

and the (draft) “Guidelines for Reception Facilities of Ship-generated Garbage in Ports and Harbors” have been formulated

to ensure that oil and garbage are appropriately received in ports and harbors.

(2) Control measures on air pollution from shipsSince sulfur oxide (SOx) can negatively affect the human body and cause acid rain, the International Maritime

Organization (IMO) regulates SOx emitted by vessels according to the MARPOL Convention, which stipulates standard

values of sulfur concentrations in fuel oil used by vessels according to the sea area in which vessels operate. Presently, the

MARPOL Convention stipulates a maximum concentration of 0.1 percent in certain sea areas subject to strict controls

(emission control areas) and a maximum concentration of 3.5 percent in all other seas areas (general sea areas). With

respect to general sea areas, the MARPOL Convention provides for the lowering of the current standard value to a

maximum of 0.5 percent from as early as January 1, 2020. (The IMO will determine the availability of compliant fuel oil.

If it is determined that compliance with regulations on January 1, 2020 by vessels is impossible, the date from which this

change will take effect shall be January 1, 2025.)

In addition to participating in IMO discussions pertaining to SOx emission reductions, Japan has engaged in other

initiatives with a view to disseminating natural gas-fueled ships that can significantly reduce the amount of SOx emission,

such as by formulating safety standards and codifying them into international rules and providing construction support.

Domestically, Japan’s first natural gas-fueled ship went into service in September 2015.

(3) Responding to issues of invasive aquatic species carried by shipsControl measures on invasive aquatic species carried by ships It is pointed out that the transfer of aquatic species via

ships’ ballast water Note 2 and ships’ biofouling would threat marine ecosystem in waters where these ships navigate in. In

order to prevent the transfer of invasive species, “International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’

Ballast Water and Sediments in 2004” and “the 2011 Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships’ biofouling to

minimize the transfer of invasive aquatic species in 2011” were adopted at the IMO. With the necessity to take action to

prevent the disruption to the ecosystem caused by the harmful ballast water from international shipping and to fulfill the

international responsibility under the international cooperation, the Government of Japan proposed the law to implement

the Ballast Water Management Convention (amendments Act on Prevention of Maritime Pollution and Maritime Disaster)

Note 1 International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.Note 2 Sea water loaded as weight to balance the ship when it carries no cargo.


Section 6 Improving living environments by preventing atmospheric and noise pollution

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to the 186th ordinary session of the Diet, and it passed with an unanimous vote. Note Japan concluded the convention in

October 2014 and has made efforts to develop on environmental development work to enable the early entry into force of

the convention.


1 Policies for environmental issues related to road traffic

(1) Measures for individual vehicles(i) Exhaust gas reduction measures

Statutory amendments were passed in July 2015 with respect to exhaust gas measures applicable to new vehicles in

order to further reduce exhaust gas generated by trucks, buses, and motorcycles. Concerning trucks and buses, we

consequently introduced the Worldwide Heavy-Duty Certification procedure (WHDC), reinforced regulatory values

applicable to nitrogen oxides, introduced exhaust regulations for off-cycle emissions, and mandated that vehicles be

equipped with advanced on-board diagnostic systems. Concerning motorcycles, we reinforced regulatory values applicable

to exhaust gas, introduced fuel evaporative gas measures, and mandated that vehicles be equipped with on-board diagnostic

systems. We have been successively applying these changes since October 2016. In order to introduce the Worldwide

Harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) for testing exhaust gas and fuel efficiency with respect to passenger

vehicles, we are preparing revisions to concerned laws and ordinances and will begin applying these procedures

progressively in 2018.

In connection with Volkswagen emissions scandal that emerged in September 2015, relevant statutes and ordinances

were amended in November of the same year and the use of software to activate emission control devices on passenger

cars only during testing and to turn deactivate them when the vehicle is operating under real-world conditions was banned.

Review meetings chaired by experts were held jointly with the Ministry of the Environment to study reviews of emissions

test procedure for passenger vehicles.

In order to help consumers identify and select vehicles that perform exceptionally well in terms of reducing the amount

of exhaust gas generated, a program for certifying low-exhaust gas vehicles according to the given level of reduction has

been implemented for vehicles that reduce harmful substances by more than the regulatory values for exhaust gas that

apply to them.

Exhaust gas measures for in-use vehicles (vehicles already in usage) such as those based on the Amendment Act on

Reduction of Total Amount of Nitrogen Dioxide and Particulate Matters Originating from Automobiles in Designated

Areas (Automobile NOx PM Law) are being implemented.

(ii) Reinforcing noise regulationsWith respect to measures to deal with noise pollution generated by vehicles, regulations govern noise generated from

accelerating the vehicle, steady running noise, and proximate exhaust noise. In order to introduce noise regulations tied to

tires as a measure to reduce the noise generated by tires on four-wheeled vehicles that contribute considerably to the noise

generated by normal operations, statutes and ordinances were amended in October 2015; these provisions will begin to be

progressively applied in April 2018.

In order to harmonize noise regulations governing four-wheeled vehicles with international standards that will reinforce

regulations in two stages, statutes and ordinances were amended in April 2016; these provisions will begin to be

progressively applied in October of the same year.

Note Also, a proposal to obtain the approval for conclusion of the Convention was submitted to the 186th ordinary session of the Diet, and the proposal passed with unanimous vote.



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(2) Promotion of traffic flow Measures(i) Countermeasures for Air Pollution

The volume of particulate matter (PM)

and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from

automobiles is increasing because of the

increasing frequency of stop-and-go traffic

and the reduced travel speed. For this

reason, we are advancing the shift through

traffic in urban areas to bypasses as a way

to improve the roadside environment.

(ii) Countermeasures for noise pollutionJapan is proceeding with the lamination of low-noise pavement, installation of noise barriers, and maintenance of

environmental roadside facilities. Based on the “Law for the Improvement of Areas along Trunk Roads”, in addition to

preventative measures for issues caused by traffic noise, financial assistance is being provided for buffer buildings and

noise insulation work for housing in construction projects in areas alongside roads.

2 Environmental measures for airports and surrounding areas

In Japan, we have been steadily implementing various measures to deal with aircraft noise through improvements in

materials made possible by the introduction of low-noise aircraft, restrictions on departures and arrivals imposed via

regulations governing night-time flights, improvements in flight methods based on noise-abatement operations, upgraded

airport structures, and measures concerning the peripheral environment, including sound-insulation work and the provision

of compensation for relocation. In recent years, the growing popularity of low-noise aircraft accounts for a reduced impact

that aircraft noise is having on areas surrounding airports even as the number of departures and arrivals by aircraft is

rising.

We will need to strive to accommodate the growth of areas surrounding airports and the desire to conserve the local

environment by continuing to take comprehensive measures to deal with aircraft noise while gaining the understanding

and cooperation of local residents in accordance with changes in such conditions as the demand for air travel.

3 Countermeasures for Railway Noise

In terms of the noise control for Shinkansen bullet trains, countermeasures for noise are being taken, such as the

installation of sound barriers, the raising of track level, etc. For the construction of new railways for Shinkansen bullet

trains, for regions where the measures mentioned are difficult to implement, Japan is providing financial aid for sound

insulation work in already existence housing.

As for noise control measures for existing lines, each railway company is instructed to lower noise levels below a fixed

value when constructing new railways and renovating already existing railways, more than previously in large-scale

improvement projects, based on the “Guidelines for Noise Abatement Measures in the Construction of New Lines and

Large-scale Improvement of Conventional Railways.”

4 Countermeasures for urban heat islands

Heat island effect refers to the phenomenon where a metropolitan area is significantly warmer than its surrounding

rural areas. The global annual mean temperature has risen at a rate of around 0.7ºC per century. At the same time, annual

mean temperature averaged for locations in Japan that are likely to be only minimally affected by urbanization is expected

to rise at a rate of about 1.5ºC per century. In contrast, annual mean temperatures in major metropolitan areas will rise by

Figure II-8-6-1The Correlation Between Driving Speed and the Emission of Particulate Matter and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) from Ve-hicles

0.055

0.033 0.025 0.027

0.00

0.02

0.04

0.06

0.08

20 40 60 80

Am

ount of SP

M em

issions（g/km

）

Average driving speed（km/h）

0.95

0.58 0.47

0.60

0.00.20.40.60.81.01.2

20 40 60 80

Am

ount of NO

x emissions（

g/km）

Average driving speed（km/h）

The correlation between SPM emission and driving speed The correlation between NOx emission and driving speed

Source) MLIT



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approximately 2-3ºC, such that urbanization will likely aggravate the global warming trend and render temperature

increases more prominent.

In order to advance comprehensive and effective measures for dealing with the urban heat island effect, we are engaged

in various initiatives according to the Outline of Measures for Dealing with the Heat Island Effect, which systematically

summarizes specific measures put forth by relevant ministries and agencies. These initiatives include the following :

initiatives that reduce artificial heat emitted by air-conditioning systems and automobiles, initiatives that improve ground

surfaces based on the greening of public spaces and the use of water, initiatives that consist of urban development projects

that take wind channels into account, and initiatives for which observations, monitoring, and surveys are conducted with

respect to the heat island phenomenon.

5 Countermeasures for sick building syndrome and soil contamination

(1) Countermeasures for sick building syndromeSick building syndrome describes a situation where

materials used in the interior of a building disperses

chemical substances which are hazardous to health. Japan

is taking measures such as regulations on building materials

and ventilation in the “Building Standard Act”, and

formulating performance labelling systems based on the

“Housing Quality Assurance Act.”

In the maintenance of government facilities, Japan has

implemented restrictions over the usage of building

materials containing chemical substances, as well as

measuring the indoor concentration of airborne chemical

contaminants after completing construction.

(2) Countermeasures against issues related to dioxinsStudies over the water and earth quality of class A river

systems throughout Japan are being conducted for dioxins specified in the “Act on Special Measures concerning

Countermeasures against Dioxins.” In FY 2014, the sediment of all locations and the water quality of 98% (219 locations

out of 224) of the locations satisfied environmental standards.

For rivers, ports, and harbors, we have implemented dioxin countermeasures as required according to the Manual on

Measures to Deal with Dioxins at the Bottom of Lakes (proposed), which was revised in April 2008, and the Technical

Guide on Measures to Deal with Dioxins at the Bottom of Ports and Harbors (revised edition). Support for programs

involving pollution-prevention measures is being provided for rivers, ports, and harbors where dioxins exceeding standards

have been detected in samples taken from the bottom of these locations.

(3) Measures against asbestosIssues concerning asbestos are life-threatening. As buildings that were built in the 1970s—when mass amounts of

asbestos was imported to Japan—each their dismantling period, it is important to implement pre-emptive measures to

prevent injuries from occurring.

In order to accurately and efficiently determine the actual use of asbestos building materials, investigators are being

trained based on the system for investigators of structures containing asbestos building materials, which was created in

2013.

Also, based on the “Building Standards Law”, the removal of sprayed asbestos when renovating a building is required,

auxiliary system of comprehensive grants for social capital development is in place to promote the asbestos removal in

existing buildings and follow ups are being done for the situation of the removal and anti-scattering of asbestos in the

existing facilities under the jurisdiction of national ministries and agencies.

Furthermore, Japan is promoting the dissemination of information in efforts such as compiling data bases on referential

cost estimates for removal work of spray-applied asbestos insulation, documents useful for identifying building materials

Figure II-8-6-2 Visualization of Sick Building Syndrome

Indoor air pollution from chemical contaminants

Enhanced hermeticity of buildings

The multifarious usage of chemical substances

Acute health effectsIrritations to eyes, nose, or throat, dizziness, headaches, and nausea

Inadequate ventilation

Formaldehyde, etc.

Termite repellents (chlorpyrifos, etc.)

Furniture

Sub-floors

Building material (floor, walls, ceiling, etc.)

Source) MLIT


Section 7 Observing, Monitoring, and Forecasting Changes in the Global Environment

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containing asbestos (Visually identifiable building materials containing asbestos) and information on such materials, as

well as pamphlets for measures related to asbestos in buildings.

6 Environmental measures in construction

The gas emissions measures (NOx, PM) for construction machinery that are not driven on public roads, the registration,

certification and approval are being handled based on the “Act on Regulation, Etc. of Emissions from Non-road Special

Motor Vehicles”. Things like the low interest loan system is in place to provide assistance for the purchasing of construction

machinery that have been adapted to be environment-friendly by meeting the latest emission standards and having reduced

noise.


1 Observing and monitoring the global environment

(1) Observing and monitoring climate changeIn order to grasp the status of green-

house gases (GHGs), the Japan Meteoro-

logical Agency (JMA) is observing CO2

trends in the atmosphere at three stations in

Japan. CO2 concentrations in the marine

atmosphere, as well as those in the sea sur-

face water are being observed in the west-

ern North Pacific by research vessels.

GHGs in the upper troposphere in the west-

ern North Pacific is also being observed.

Furthermore, JMA is not only monitoring

climate changes, but also observing solar

and infrared radiation at domestic five stations in order to reduce an uncertainty of global warming projections.

In addition, JMA observes sea level rise accompanied by global warming, and publish information on the long-term

change in sea levels around Japanese coasts.

In addition, in order to improve the accuracy of seasonal weather forecasting and monitoring of climate change, JMA

produced the Japanese 55-year reanalysis (JRA-55), a historical global atmospheric data with homogeneity in space and

time.

Moreover, “Climate Change Monitoring Reports” and “Report on Climate Change and Extreme Weather” (in Japanese)

are compiled based on results from observation, and future projection of climate changes, extreme weather events and

global warming is disclosed to the public. Serving as the World Data Centre for Greenhouse Gases (WDCGG) of the

World Meteorological Organization (WMO), JMA also archives and provides observation data on greenhouse gases

around the world.

(2) Observing and monitoring extreme weather eventsThe Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) monitors unusual weather events occurring in Japan and elsewhere in the

world and summarizes and releases periodic and extraordinary information concerning weather disasters and areas where

extreme high and low temperatures, heavy and light rainfalls, and other such events have been observed. Also, when

extreme weather conditions are occurring that significantly affect the public, summary reports are given covering the

information regarding features, factors and the outlook.

Furthermore, as a Regional Climate Center of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), JMA provides

information such as monitoring and analysis of extreme weather as well as technical assistance through training and

dispatch of experts to National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in Asian countries to support the climate

service in the Asia Pacific region.

Figure II-8-7-1 Time-series of CO2 concentration in Japan

CO

2 concentration (pp

m)

410

400

390

380

370

360

350

34019891987 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 (Year)2003 2005 2007 2009 2011 2013 2015

Ryori Minamitorishima Yonagunijima

Source) Japan Meteorological Agency



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(3) Observing and monitoring with geostationary meteorological satellitesThe Japan Meteorological Agency launched Himawari-8, a new geostationary meteorological satellite, into space on

October 7, 2014; this satellite began operating on July 7, 2015. There is also a plan to launch Himawari-9 in FY 2016. By

using these satellites-in addition to improving the disaster prevention function against such things like tropical cyclones

and torrential rainfalls-Japan is leading the world in strengthening its monitoring function of the Earth’s environment,

including global warming.

(4) Observing and monitoring the oceanThe ocean is greatly impacting the earth’s climate by storing a much larger amount of heat than the atmosphere, and it

is also easing the progression of global warming by absorbing CO2 discharged by human economic activity. In order to

monitor global warming, an accurate grasp of oceanic conditions is essential.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), under the international cooperative structure, monitors oceanic conditions

by carrying out ocean observation with high accuracy from research vessels in the western North Pacific along with using

data from satellites and Argo floats, or profiling floats to automatically observe the ocean interior.

JMA website “Marine Diagnosis Report” provides information on the present status of the ocean such as ocean

temperatures, ocean currents, sea level, sea ice, as well as the prospect for the future.

The Japan Coast Guard constantly monitors fluctuations in the Kuroshio Current in waters surrounding the Izu Islands,

using high-frequency radar, and publishes the observation data. In addition, the Japan Oceanographic Data Center collects

and manages data obtained by Japanese marine research organizations, and discloses it to relevant institutions and to the

public.

Figure II-8-7-3Example of a “Marine Diagnosis Re-port” published on the Japan Meteoro-logical Agency Website

[Satellite imagery of the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk (Himawari, a geostationary meteorological satellite)]A satellite image of the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk as observed by Himawari-8, a geostationary meteorological satellite.By using and processing multiple channels of images taken by satellites, sea ice is shown in blue, oceans are shown in black, and cloud is shown as ranging from white to red. (Satellite imagery on February 28, 2016)Shown in light blue, sea ice is revealed to be distributed across an area from the east coast of Sakhalin to the Hokkaido coast facing the Sea of Okhotsk.


Figure II-8-7-2Monitoring the Global Environment us-ing research vessels

8-7-2

pH

(hydrogen ion exp

onents)

YearThe long-term changes in hydrogen ion exponents (pH) at latitudes 10, 20, 30 degrees north along 137 degrees east meridian (left) and the area map for data analysis (right). The numbers in the graph indicate the decreasing rates per 10 years. The lesser pH indicates the more progress of “ocean acidification”.




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(5) Observing and monitoring the ozone layerThe Japan Meteorological Agency annually publishes the outcome of observations on ozone and ultraviolet radiation.

According to these studies, the global amount of ozone continues to be low from a long-term perspective. Additionally,

in order to prevent adverse effects to the human body by ultraviolet radiation, information on the topic is published daily

using a numerical index (UV index) for easy comprehension of the intensity of ultraviolet radiation.

(6) Promoting routine operational observation in the AntarcticThe Geospatial Information Authority of Japan facilitates activities carried out by Antarctic research expeditions. At

the same time, it makes geodetic observations, produces and updates topographical maps, and develops satellite image

maps on the Antarctic region in order to contribute to international activities relating to research on global environmental

changes and geodetic surveys.

The Japan Meteorological Agency continues to conduct observation of ozone, solar and infrared radiation, surface and

upper-air at the Syowa Station (Antarctica). Accumulated meteorological data contribute to monitor and research the

global environment, such as the changes in Antarctic ozone hole and global climate, and are utilized for the formulation

of international policies.

The Japan Coast Guard is conducting topographical studies on the sea floor. The observation data is being used for

compiling nautical charts and as the basis for research related to past environmental conditions such as glacial erosion and

sedimentary environments. In addition, they conduct tidal observations and monitor the fluctuations in sea levels, which

are closely tied to global warming.

2 Research and Prediction of the Global Environment

The Japan Meteorological Agency and the Meteorological Research Institute are developing prognostic models on

changes in climate around Japan and the world, and actively participate in international research programs such as the

World Climate Research Programme (WCRP). Earth system models that track the carbon cycle process and other changes

and higher resolution regional climate models are being developed, and research for making warming predictions is being

conducted. Proactive contributions were made to the release (in FY 2012) of “Global Warming Projection Vol.8” which

shows the detailed warming predictions for the area around Japan based on a highly developed regional climate model,

the fifth assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) (released in 2013-2014), and the

plan for adapting to the impact of climate change (Cabinet decision of November 2015).

The National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management released the results of research into climate change

adaptation conducted from the standpoints of flood control, water utilization, and the environment through the Interim

Report on Research into Climate Change Adaptation (2013) and other documents. These results have been incorporated

into various materials, including Adapting to Climate Change in the Area of Water Disasters (August 2015), a report

issued by the Social Development Council, and a plan for adapting to climate change (November 2015) as formulated by

the MLIT.

3 Promoting Global Mapping Project and the world geodetic network

Geospatial Information Authority of Japan is in charge of the secretariat of the Global Mapping Project (in which 183

countries and regions are participating as of January 2016), continuously leading the project which develops and releases

digital geospatial information on land areas around the globe. The activities using geospatial information toward to

disaster risk reduction and the effort to understand and analyze the global environment are promoted. In addition, Japan

contributes to global scale observations and researches through the activities, e.g., international VLBI (Very Long

Baseline Interferometry is a space geodetic technique using radio waves from quasars) and SLR (Satellite Laser Ranging

is a method for measuring the range between an artificial satellite with retroreflectors and a ground station by laser pulse),

tide observations, absolute gravity measurements, and participation in International GNSS Service (IGS).

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